8) Interactive Medical Media LLC, Fitzpatrick's Color Atlas & Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, Dr. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. Some types cause warts and are usually harmless, but others may lead to cervical or anal cancer. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your pet’s health. Never ignore professional veterinary advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. The term comes from the shape of the tiny parasites, which look very different from head or body lice. ScabiesScabies is an itchy infestation caused by a tiny mite that burrows into human skin to lay eggs.
The Clap (Gonorrhea)Gonorrhea spreads easily and can lead to infertility in both men and women, if untreated.
Later there may be a rash on the soles, palms, or other parts of the body (seen here), as well as swollen glands, fever, hair loss, or fatigue. In the late stage, symptoms come from damage to organs such as the heart, brain, liver, nerves, and eyes. This virus is usually not an STD; it spreads easily among household members or through kissing.
But it can be spread to the genitals through oral or genital contact with an infected person.

Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2Most cases of genital herpes are caused by a virus called HSV-2. It's highly contagious and can spread through intercourse or direct contact with a herpes sore.
People can be infected through sex, needle sharing, and at birth, as well as by sharing razors and toothbrushes.
One limitation is the "window period" of up to six months after exposure to HIV when these antibody tests sometimes do not find the virus. People take a combination of antiviral drugs in hopes of preventing the infection from advancing to AIDS.
Additional treatments can help prevent or fight off serious infections, if the immune system has weakened.
ChancroidChanchroid is a bacterial STD that is common in Africa and Asia but rare in the U.S. LGV (Lymphogranuloma Venereum)LGV is caused by a type of chlamydia that is usually rare in the U.S.
Pelvic Inflammatory DiseaseNot an STD itself, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious complication of untreated STDs, especially chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Who's at Risk for STDs?Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for an STD, regardless of gender, race, social class, or sexual orientation.
The CDC has noted that some STDs are on the rise in men who have sex with men, including syphilis and LGV. Many STDs spread through any type of sexual activity, including skin-to-skin contact and oral sex.
Preventing STDsThe best ways to avoid getting an STD are to abstain from any sexual contact and be in a monogamous, long-term relationship with an uninfected partner.

These infections can spread through contact with skin lesions that are not covered by a condom. How to Tell Your PartnerIf you think you have an STD, tell your partner(s) as soon as possible.
You may be able to spread the infection even if you have already begun treatment or are using condoms.
Many STDs can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or after the baby is born. STDs' effects on babies can include stillbirth, low birth weight, neurologic problems, blindness, liver disease, and serious infection. Treatment during pregnancy can cure some STDs and lower the risk of passing the infection to your baby. Can STDs Come Back?Most STD treatments do not protect you from getting the same infection again. A course of drugs may cure gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia or trichomoniasis, but a new exposure can start a new infection. And if you're not taking the right precautions to protect yourself, you can be re-infected quickly or even pick up a second STD.